Rochdale school celebrates rising results and remarkable student achievements for second year running.
Oulder Hill Leadership Academy in Rochdale is celebrating a second successive year of improved GCSE results, with nearly half of its pupils now achieving strong passes in English and Maths.
The school, rated ‘Good’ in all areas by Ofsted earlier this year, reported that 46% of students earned grades 9 to 5 in both English and Maths, a 3% increase on 2024’s results. Meanwhile, 66% achieved grades 9 to 4 in the core subjects.
Among the standout achievers was Veronica Kuong Chou, who collected 12 GCSEs, including seven at the top grade 9. She will study A levels in Biochemistry, Graphic Design and Maths at Rochdale Sixth Form College, aiming for a career in medical illustration. “I am incredibly happy with my results,” Veronica said. “I have always felt supported by both my teachers and peers.”
Milo Irvine also heads to Rochdale Sixth Form College with ambitions to become a medical researcher, after earning one grade 9 and seven grade 8s. “Anything is possible if you put your mind to it,” he said.
After attending a summer programme at Oxford University’s Pembroke College, Dylan Newton achieved five grade 9s and now hopes to study Physics at the University of Cambridge. He praised the school for helping shape his ambitions, saying: “The school has moulded me as a person and I am thankful for the support I have received.”
Another high achiever, Aabay Ali, balanced academic success with an acting career in BBC’s Waterloo Road, earning a mix of 6s and 7s, plus a Level 2 Distinction. She will study English Language, Psychology and Film Studies while continuing to pursue acting.
Ben McMorrow, who is heading into a sporting career with Premiership Rugby club Sale Sharks, will combine his studies at the College of Rugby with his BTec and GCSE success. His results included a Level 2 Distinction*, a Level 2 Pass and strong GCSE scores. “The wonderful teaching here has allowed me to be successful,” he said.
Principal Adi Smale praised the class of 2025 for their hard work and resilience:
“Each grade represents hours of commitment, determination, and personal growth. As our pupils step into the next stage of their journeys, whether in further education, training or work, we are confident they will do so with the same spirit and ambition they’ve shown throughout their time at Oulder Hill.”
Labour hold key Moorside seat on Bury Council
Police prepare major operation as Parklife and other events draw crowds across Greater Manchester
Blossoms announce sixth album Songs From The Wedding Cake and UK arena tour
Jamie Varley given whole life order for murder of toddler Preston Davey
New leadership appointments mark next stage of growth for Roch Valley Radio
Award winning Darnhill Festival returns with free day of family entertainment
Rochdale mental health arts group shortlisted for national exhibition prize
Cllr Jordan Tarrant-Short steps down as Reform UK deputy leader in Rochdale
New poetry anthologies celebrate Rochdale voices after Town of Culture year
Hundred year old Rochdale care home resident dances on TikTok to raise money for children in Sri Lanka
Operation Tetbury helping transform Rochdale town centre as crime falls by more than 25 per cent
Thirty years on, the bomb that changed Manchester forever

Comments
Add a comment